IPL 2026: 3 Players RCB should release ahead of mini-auction

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) finally lifted their maiden IPL trophy in 2025. Under Rajat Patidar’s captaincy, the franchise ended an 18-year-long wait for glory. As they prepare for the 2026 season, the expectations and pressure will be much higher as they aim to defend their title.

However, before the season begins, RCB could part ways with a few players during the mini-auction — those who were part of the championship-winning squad but failed to make a strong individual impact. Whether with the bat or ball, their performances did not quite match the team’s overall success.

According to recent reports, the mini-auction is going to take place in Abu Dhabi in mid-December 2025. So, for Rajat Patidar and the RCB team management, a sweet headache might await in releasing some of the players who were an integral part of the title-winning squad.

Here are three RCB players who might be released ahead of the mini-auction

1. Liam Livingstone

The England all-rounder could be one of the first players RCB decides to release before the next IPL season. Livingstone was signed for his explosive batting and useful spin-bowling skills in the middle overs.

However, he could not meet expectations in IPL 2025, scoring only 112 runs in eight innings and taking just two wickets in five matches.

2. Mayank Agarwal

Mayank joined the team as an injury replacement for Devdutt Padikkal and played four games in the 2025 season. He scored 95 runs with an average of 31.66 and a strike rate of 148.43 — important contributions towards the end of the tournament.

But with Padikkal likely to return fully fit for the 2026 season, RCB may choose to retain the young southpaw, which could lead to Agarwal being released.

3. Lungi Ngidi

The South African pacer claimed four wickets in two matches but conceded runs at an economy rate of 10.12. Despite his efforts, Ngidi did not get much game time as RCB preferred using the experienced Indian pair of Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Yash Dayal, along with overseas options Josh Hazlewood and Romario Shepherd.

As a result, RCB might release Ngidi and search for a more consistent and experienced overseas fast bowler ahead of the 2026 season.

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